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It’s hunting season in Alaska! As we begin preparing for hunts, one potential health concern is lead-based ammunition. Despite bans on household products, most paints and gasoline, lead remains widespread in hunting ammunition. This ongoing use of lead not only poses risks to wildlife but also to human health, especially when accidentally ingested.
Lead bullets are known to fragment into so many tiny splinters upon impact when hunting that it’s nearly impossible to remove them all from the wound channel. While accidentally swallowing fragments in processed meat may not trigger immediate health issues, the lead exposure can cause higher blood lead levels, particularly in children. Continued lead exposure can result in irreversible neurological damage, developmental delays, and behavioral problems. Recognizing these risks, we support safer alternatives, like copper bullets.
Copper bullets present a viable and safer alternative to lead rounds. They are designed to expand consistently upon impact, do not fragment into dangerous splinters, and are highly effective for hunting. Additionally, copper bullets are environmentally friendly, reducing the risk of lead contamination in our lands.
The Alaska Copper Ammo Challenge is a rebate program designed to promote the adoption of copper ammunition among hunters. Participants simply purchase copper bullets, photograph the receipt and ammunition, and submit their entries online. Successful submissions qualify for Visa gift cards:
- $40 rebate per box of copper bullet cartridges, up to 2 boxes ($80 total)
- $25 rebate per box of copper bullets for reloading, up to 2 boxes ($50 total)
This initiative aims to protect future generations by reducing lead exposure risks and fostering sustainable hunting practices. By using copper ammunition, hunters can contribute to environmental conservation while also saving money on their ammunition costs.
For more information and to participate in the program, visit The Alaska Copper Ammo Challenge. Embracing safer, more responsible hunting practices benefits everyone—wildlife, communities, and future generations alike.
To learn more about how lead impacts children’s health, visit https://www.cdc.gov/lead-prevention/about/index.html
